Update of biological control research for cat’s claw creeper and Madeira vine

Abstract

Cat’s claw creeper and Madeira vine are Weeds of National Significance. Both invasive vine species threaten riparian and rainforest ecosystems in Queensland. New biological control agents for both these species have recently been approved for release in Australia. The leaf mining jewel beetle Hylaeogena jureceki that feeds on cat’s claw creeper was approved for release in August 2012, while the leaf-feeding Madeira vine beetle Plectonycha correntina was approved in May 2011. Approximately 11,000 H. jureceki beetles have been released at 23 sites in Queensland. Approximately 35,000 P. correntina beetles have been released at 86 sites in Queensland. The Madeira vine beetle is persisting at 58% of sites that have been monitored and feeding damage is evident at some sites. The cat’s claw beetle can be found at all monitored release sites and has completed development to provide a second generation at most sites. These insects are in addition to the leaf-tying moth Hypocosmia pyrochroma and the tingid Carvalhotingis visenda, both released to attack cat’s claw creeper in 2007. This paper provides an overview of rearing and release techniques and the spread and efficacy of these insects. Community groups have a role in the rearing and release of biological control insects, providing more rapid spread and establishment.